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Hakeem Jeffries says renaming of Kennedy Center is illegal

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The Hill
December 18, 2025 8:39 PM
YoyoFeed Summarized

House Minority Leader Hakeem Jeffries (D-N.Y.) has signaled that any attempt by the Trump administration to rename the Kennedy Center would be illegal without legislative action. Jeffries' comments come as the Kennedy Center Board reportedly voted unanimously to rename the historic venue to include Donald Trump's name.

According to Jeffries, the Kennedy Center Board lacks the authority to unilaterally change the name of the institution. He emphasized that legislative action is a prerequisite for any such renaming. This move by the board and Jeffries' subsequent reaction highlight a potential conflict regarding the legal process and proper authority required for altering the name of a nationally significant cultural landmark.

Who is proposing the renaming of the Kennedy Center?
The Kennedy Center Board has reportedly voted unanimously to rename the historic venue to include Donald Trump's name.
Why does Hakeem Jeffries believe the renaming is illegal?
Hakeem Jeffries argues that the Kennedy Center Board does not have the authority to rename the center without specific legislative action from Congress.
What is the current political context surrounding this issue?
The discussions around renaming the Kennedy Center are occurring during the Trump administration, and Hakeem Jeffries, as House Minority Leader, is challenging the proposed change.